A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a woman’s uterus or womb. The fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be removed during this surgery. After the procedure, women can no longer become pregnant and will not have menstrual periods.
Who Needs a Hysterectomy?
This procedure may be necessary for patients with the following conditions:
- Uterine fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterine wall that cause pain or heavy bleeding.
- Heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding: Caused by hormonal changes, cancer, fibroids, or infections.
- Uterine prolapse: When the uterus slips into the vagina due to multiple vaginal births, menopause, or obesity, leading to urinary and bowel issues and pelvic pressure.
- Adenomyosis: Uterine tissue grows inside the uterine walls, causing thickening, heavy bleeding, and severe pain.
- Endometriosis: Uterine tissue grows on the ovaries, causing severe pain and bleeding between periods.
- Cancer: Patients with ovarian, cervical, uterine, or endometrial cancer may need a hysterectomy.
Types of Hysterectomies
- Total hysterectomy: The entire uterus and cervix are removed, and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes as well.
- Partial, subtotal, or supracervical hysterectomy: The upper part of the uterus is removed, leaving the cervix intact, with possible removal of the ovaries.
- Radical hysterectomy: The uterus, cervix, tissue on both sides of the cervix, and the upper part of the vagina are removed. This is often performed for certain cancers, such as cervical cancer, and may include removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
What to Expect During a Hysterectomy
- Abdominal hysterectomy: Performed through an incision in the lower abdomen.
- Vaginal hysterectomy: Conducted through a small incision in the vagina.
- Laparoscopic hysterectomy: A laparoscope is used to visualize pelvic organs, with surgery done through small incisions in the abdomen or vagina to insert the laparoscope and surgical tools.
- Robotic surgery: The surgeon uses a robotic arm to control tools inserted through small cuts in the lower abdomen.
The Recovery Process for Hysterectomy
- Hospital stays: Typically, patients stay in the hospital for one or two days, with longer stays possible for cancer treatment.
- Early movement: Patients should start moving around soon after surgery to aid recovery.
- Recovery time: Abdominal surgery requires four to six weeks of recovery, while vaginal, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery requires three to four weeks.
- Post-surgery care: Get plenty of rest. Avoid heavy lifting, hot baths, and sexual intercourse for four to six weeks.
Choose UCI Pelvic Health Center for Hysterectomy
If you’re struggling with conditions like uterine fibroids, heavy bleeding, or pelvic pain, a hysterectomy at UCI Pelvic Health Center could be the solution. Our experienced team offers advanced surgical options tailored to your needs, including minimally invasive techniques for quicker recovery. We provide compassionate, personalized care to help you regain your quality of life.